Charleston Fishing Charters
Charleston fishing charters give anglers a shot at redfish in skinny creeks, offshore reef action for snapper and grouper, and deep Gulf Stream runs for tuna and mahi.
Top Rated Charters in Charleston
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Charleston, SC Fishing Guide
Charleston is one of the most versatile fisheries on the South Atlantic coast, with charter options ranging from shallow inshore flats to deep sea trips 60+ miles offshore. Inshore and nearshore half-days are common, especially around Charleston Harbor, the Wando and Cooper Rivers, and the countless winding creeks of the surrounding Lowcountry marsh. Redfish, speckled trout, and flounder are the core targets here, and guides know when to work popping corks, live mud minnows, or sight-cast jigs to tailing reds depending on tides and time of year.
Longer full-day trips head offshore through Charleston’s jetties and into the Atlantic. Within 10–30 miles, nearshore reefs and ledges hold bottom species like black sea bass, triggerfish, spadefish, and king mackerel. Push farther and you’ll hit the 60- to 80-mile marks where the Gulf Stream swings close to the coast. That’s where Charleston deep sea fishing charters troll for mahi, wahoo, tuna, and even billfish during peak months.
Boat ramps and charter docks are spread throughout the area. Shem Creek in Mount Pleasant is one of the most popular launch spots, with direct access to both the harbor and jetties. Charleston City Marina and Folly Beach also serve as jumping-off points for various trips. Local captains know how to work this fishery with the tide—whether it’s drifting shrimp under docks, chumming over live bottom, or slow-trolling cigar minnows for kings.
Charleston’s mild winters and long growing season mean year-round opportunities, but the bite patterns shift by season. Spring and fall bring excellent inshore fishing and pelagic runs offshore. Summer heats up the surf and reefs, while winter puts bull reds in the harbor and nearshore.
Fishing Seasons in Charleston
Spring
Spring marks the kickoff of strong inshore fishing around Charleston. Redfish and speckled trout start feeding more aggressively as water temps rise. Shrimp and crab baits become effective, and fly anglers begin targeting reds on flood tide flats. Offshore, the nearshore reefs begin to fill in with sheepshead, sea bass, and the first pushes of king mackerel. Farther out, dolphin (mahi) and blackfin tuna show up as the Gulf Stream bite picks up in April and May. Charter demand increases, especially around warming trends and pre-spawn activity.
Summer
Summer fishing in Charleston means a mix of strong inshore and offshore action. Redfish stay active around grass lines, docks, and oyster beds, especially on early morning tides. Tarpon migrate through, offering a shot at silver kings for prepared anglers. Offshore trips push deep into the Gulf Stream targeting mahi, wahoo, and billfish during their peak season. Nearshore reefs stay productive with cobia, Spanish mackerel, and triggers. Early starts help beat the heat and afternoon storms. Family-friendly half-day trips are common this time of year.
Fall
Fall brings some of the best overall fishing of the year to Charleston. Redfish school up in large pods, feeding heavily in preparation for winter. Flood tides in early fall still offer great sight-casting, while cooling water pushes trout and flounder into creeks and drop-offs. Offshore, kings and sailfish are still around, and bottom fishing picks up for snapper and grouper. Sheepshead start staging on jetties and pilings. Local captains adjust their playbooks as the water cools but remains stable—this is prime time for anglers who like steady action and mixed bags.
Winter
Winter fishing in Charleston isn’t dead—it just shifts gears. Inshore, you’ll find large schools of redfish cruising the flats and warming on muddy bottoms during sunny days. Trout hold in deeper holes and respond well to slow soft-plastic presentations. Nearshore, sheepshead stack up on reef structures and jetties, with fiddler crabs being the go-to bait. Offshore trips are less common due to rougher seas, but calm weather windows still produce sea bass and snapper over hard bottom. Winter charters often favor quality over quantity, with experienced guides dialing in tides and temperatures.
Gamefish in Charleston
- Redfish – 16–40+ inches Targeted year-round in creeks, grass flats, and along docks using cut bait, shrimp, or artificial lures. Best sight-fishing during spring and fall flood tides.
- Speckled Trout – 12–24 inches Found in deeper creek bends, grass edges, and oyster bars. Fall is peak season, with soft plastics and live shrimp under corks being effective.
- Flounder – 14–24 inches Caught around creek mouths, sandy drop-offs, and structure. Best from late spring through early fall using finger mullet or mud minnows on jigheads.
- Tarpon – 60–150 pounds Seasonal visitor in summer months, typically around inlets and coastal bars. Targeted with live bait or large plugs on heavy tackle.
- Sheepshead – 2–10 pounds Hold near pilings, jetties, and reef structures. Caught using fiddler crabs or barnacles in cooler months, especially winter and early spring.
- King Mackerel – 10–30 pounds Caught nearshore and offshore, often by slow-trolling cigar minnows. Peak bite runs late spring through fall.
- Mahi-Mahi – 10–40+ pounds Found offshore in the Gulf Stream, especially from April to September. Trolled with ballyhoo or lures near weedlines and temperature breaks.
- Blackfin Tuna – 10–30 pounds Gulf Stream species caught offshore in spring and late fall. Targeted with trolled feathers, vertical jigs, or chunking.
- Wahoo – 20–60+ pounds Fast-running offshore predator. Caught while high-speed trolling or using deep-diving plugs near drop-offs and ledges.
Charleston Fishing FAQs
What types of fishing charters are available in Charleston?
Charleston offers inshore, nearshore, and offshore fishing charters. Half-day trips typically stay in the harbor or creeks, while full-day and extended trips run offshore into the Gulf Stream.
Where do Charleston fishing charters usually depart from?
Popular launch points include Shem Creek, Charleston City Marina, and Folly Beach. Your exact pickup spot depends on the charter type and target species.
Do I need a fishing license for a Charleston charter?
No, passengers are covered under the captain’s commercial fishing license in South Carolina waters.
What can I catch inshore around Charleston?
Redfish, speckled trout, flounder, and sheepshead are the main inshore targets. These species can be caught year-round depending on conditions.
When is the best time for offshore fishing near Charleston?
The prime offshore season runs April through September when mahi, tuna, and wahoo are most active in the Gulf Stream.
Are kids welcome on Charleston fishing charters?
Yes, many captains offer family-friendly trips and will tailor the outing to younger anglers’ needs and attention spans.
What gear should I bring for my trip?
Most Charleston charters include all rods, reels, bait, and tackle. Bring sunscreen, a hat, water, and any snacks or personal items you’ll need.
Can we keep the fish we catch?
Yes, within South Carolina regulations. Your captain will help you understand what’s in season and legal to harvest.
Is fly fishing an option in this area?
Absolutely. Charleston has excellent conditions for flood tide redfish, and several guides specialize in saltwater fly trips.
